How does acupuncture work?

Traditional acupuncture is based on ancient Chinese theories of the flow of Qi or Life Energy throughout the body along distinct meridians or pathways somewhat like nerves, blood vessels, and connective tissue. Qi animates the body and protects it. When a prolonged or excessive disruption of Qi occurs, pain or disease can set in. Once the imbalances of Qi are detected, acupuncturist will place fine, sterile needles at specific acupuncture points along meridians in order to unlock the obstruction and balance Qi. When Qi is balanced and flowing freely the bodies natural self healing abilities are activated allowing internal stability and harmony to occur. Furthermore, specific acupuncture points are used in order to stimulate the central nervous system which then sends signals to the brain to release different neurotransmitters in the body. Acupuncture has been proven to release neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, enkephalins, and endorphins which can positively effect pain, mood, sleep, digestion, blood pressure, and more!

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Is Acupuncture safe?

When performed by competently trained, licensed professionals, acupuncture is extremely safe. In fact, when practiced correctly, acupuncture has little to no side effects. We use the highest quality needles available. Our needles are individually packaged, sterilized, and disposable insuring no chance of infection or contagion. At Acupuncture of New England, your safety and well-being is our 

main concern.

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Is Acupuncture painful?

More often than not, the insertion of very fine needles into the body goes unnoticed. In some cases, this insertion may result in brief passing discomfort, like a small pinch, followed by a sensation of numbness, tingling, warmth, or heaviness which are all great signs that the body is responding well! Typically, after treatments patients report feeling very relaxed. Occasionally, patients report brief dizziness immediately following the treatment that resolves itself in a few minutes.

 

What will happen during the first visit?

Patients will be required to complete a medical history and to fill out appropriate forms. If you book online with Brittany, you can complete these forms prior to arrival. After an in-depth health history consultation, you will receive an acupuncture treatment which is individualized for your specific case, pattern, and history. Treatments may include acupuncture, gua sha, cupping, electroacupuncture, moxibustion, and cold LASER acupuncture. However, the patient has full autonomy and can decline any unwanted modalities. After your session, a specific number of treatments will be recommended to achieve realistic results.

 

What should I do to prepare for my first visit?

Clothing: Acupuncture points used for your condition will determine what areas of the body that needs to be exposed. Many times access to your limbs is necessary. Please wear loose, comfortable clothing to your treatments. You may be asked to bring shorts or a tank top.

Dietary: It is important that you eat regular meals on the day of your treatment. Alcohol or other intoxicants should not be consumed as they will affect the efficacy of the treatment.

Activities: Please do not plan any strenuous or stressful activities for at least 2 hours after a treatment.

Timely information: infections and illness, such as cold, flu, and allergies are, often time, easily treated if addressed within the first 24 hours. It is essential to advise your acupuncturist of any new health issues or possible pregnancies since your previous visit. Patients should inform the practitioners as to all medications currently taking.

 

How many treatments will it take?

Duration of treatment depends on the nature of the complaint, the severity of the symptoms, and the length of time the complaint has been present. Response varies for every individual. Some patient's require only a few sessions while others need sustained care to reverse chronic conditions that have been established over time. Often times, acupuncture works similar to peeling an onion. If there are years of issues, pain, or symptoms, each treatment might peel another layer until the root of the issue is resolved. Acupuncture treatments produce a cumulative effect with time. As symptoms improve, fewer visits are required. This process is continued until maximum correction has been achieved. Many times, patients come back in for a preventative monthly treatment to keep their bodies in harmony so that disease, pain, and symptoms don't arise. 

 

Will insurance pay?

While some insurance carriers recognize acupuncture, others still do not. We encourage patients to check their individual policy. If applicable, we will provide you with the appropriate forms to submit to your insurance carrier for reimbursement.

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What Laser Therapy can treat?

Laser therapy can be used on patients who do not wish to be needled. It can also be used in conjunction with acupuncture to help increase effects. Laser therapy on acupuncture points can stimulate healing and balance within the body. Some of the things that laser therapy is used for: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, pain and/or hand paresis in stroke, arthritis, pain from acute strain and sprain, lower back pain, plantar fasciitis, hip pain, tendonitis, and many others.